Sorry Folks! I moved, then along came Thankgiving, then getting out the new LCD issue and now Christmas! Whew! I just haven't had the time to post! But don't fret, I'll be back in 2007 with regular posts to keep you going between issues.

Yappy Holidays!

I just heard about artist Pawlick (a pun on Pollock, no doubt) who creates wonderful geometric mosaics with dog food. You wouldn't think that these pieces would do as much for the human senses as the canine, but they truly are lovely little works of art. His artist statement is below. Read more about Pawlick here.


With my dry dog food works, I create the unexpected from the everyday, turning the average into the extraordinary.

A creative challenge to both inspire fresh thought amongst viewers and to assist animal outreach groups brought about this unique and light-hearted medium. Faced with a limited chromatic palate, I use basic foreground geometries and substratal patterns of flow to balance and overcome the inherent limitations therein. Finding the balance in each piece in turn inspires me to accept that challenge anew with every new creation.

Tactile in nature, my mosaics present an inviting and uniform blend of organic warmth and whimsical surprise, each piece being common in construct yet divergent in design. With no other such works to inform my creations, I enjoy the challenges of finding and overcoming the boundaries of materials and scale by means of my own creative vision.

Registration for The Trot for the Cure Now Available

On January 7, 2007, the third Trot for the Cure, a fundraiser for canine cancer research, will take place at Magnolia Gardens. It's an afternoon of fun with your dog and dog friends, to help raise money for scientists to find better treatments and cures for cancer in our dogs. This year will be even better than last, with more specialists coming from UGA to answer questions on health issues, as well as cancer, and more dancing from the Dixie Dancing Dogs out of Atlanta! The barbecue, Southern Que-N-Stew is delicious as ever, and there'll be lots of raffle prizes.

Registration for the Trot is now availble. Contact Jane Hirsch at jehirsch@earthlink.net for more info and for a registration form.

Looking for LOVE!
Lowcountry Lab Rescue needs foster homes for these dogs immediately! These dogs are in danger of being put to sleep if not rescued. Click here for more info.


Max is a one year old yellow male whose owners do not have time for him. He is headed to the shelter to be put to sleep if a foster is not found for him.

This cutie has been in a shelter for over a month with no takers. Wouldn’t he look good on your couch?


This sweet girl is looking for someone to love! Could that be you?

Humorous Toys

Check out these new witty dog toys from Pamela Barsky.

A Bit Worried

I'm sure that most of us have heard by now that the PETS Act has been passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Though I was initially extremely happy about this and felt like it was a true victory I'm beginning to wonder if there's any real bite to the bill. It's easy to think that with the passing of the bill states are now required by law to assist people with pets in natural disasters. But in a closer examination of the language, it seems that states are merely required to CREATE a disaster PLAN for people with pets. It does not look like states will be required to enforce this plan. I'm no lawyer so perhaps I'm missing something. Regardless, when the SC disaster plan for pets is revealed we should start asking how the state expects to enforce the plan.

Barkology

I'm a big fan of Barkology. I've always had an interest in textile design, and Barkology brings the best of that world to the pet industry. Zoe, the firm's founder and lead designer, just released these new designs. Here's a sneak peek, but look for more in our Holiday Gift Guide in the upcoming Dec/Jan issue.

Barkology products can be purchased at Alpaha Dog Omega Cat in Downtown Charlest, Lulu Burgess in Beaufort and Truffles Market and Cafe in Hilton Head.

Pooch Porch

Apartment Therapy had their annual pet decor design contest and I'm loving this Pooch Porch built by the The Kittrell Family in Richmond, VA. What southern dog wouldn't love her own porch to hang out on? I think this is an excellent alternative to ugly crates. Click here to learn more how the Kittrells did it.

Any of you out there have crafty alternatives to crates?

Event Reminders:

There's a lot going on this weekend folks and I just wanted to re-post the events here so you could plan your weekends accordingly. Have fun!

Partridge Creek Skeet & Eat FRWSPCA Benefit
October 21 - Partridge Creek Skeet and Eat to benefit the Frances R. Willis SPCA of Dorchester County. $50 to shoot skeet and eat barbecue or $25 to just eat barbecue. Registration 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at 1 p.m. For more information, call the SPCA at 871-3820 or email director@frwspca.org or visit the SPCA online at www.frwspca.org

Pet Helpers Meet and Greet at Kreature Comforts
Pet Helpers Meet and Greet Saturday October 21st 11:30-2:30 at Kreature Comforts in Seaside Village.
843-388-2515
www.kreaturecomforts.com


FRWSPCA Adopt-a-thon at Doolittles in Summerville
Saturday Oct 21 - Adopt-a-thon at Doolittles Noon to 3 or 4 PM SPCA animals are looking for their loving and forever homes! Drop by and meet the cats and dogs and you may just find your new best friend or forever companion! For more information about these events or the animals for adoption, call the SPCA staff at 871-3820 or visit www.frwspca.org

DOGTALK Workshop
OCT 21: 1-3pm: DOGTALK
Join us for an afternoon workshop to learn the secrets of chomping champs, howling hounds, digging demons and mischievious mutts. A fun gathering for doggie moms and dads (please leave pups at home to watch TV!). FREE. Door prizes. Common Grounds Cafe(next to James Island Baptist Church), Maybank Hwy., James Island. For more info contact Snifferdogs 843-345-6828 or snifferdogs@hotmail.com

Royal Treatment

England's Former Home Secretary David Blunkett revealed in his new book that Queen Elizabeth cuts up food for her corgis and feeds them with utensils. Apparently Blunkett, who is blind, was seated next to the Queen for an offical dinner. When she noticed that he was having difficulty cutting his meat she offered her asssitance, telling him that she often does it for her two dogs.

Horse and Hound

Despite being VERY disappointed that Laura Bennet, one of the Project Runway contenders, is NOT a dog lover (she was practically squeamish when designing an outfit for a dog during one of the challenges) I still love her personal style. She's classic, a bit opulent and is always sporting riding pants when she wants to be her version of "casual and comfy." I wish she realized how close horse and hound are in fashion and showed a little more love for canines. Well, at least J.Crew threw us dog lovers a bone. Learn more about their horse and hound cardigan here.

Volunteers needed for the John Ancrum SPCA

The John Ancrum SPCA needs volunteers at both the Daniel Island Park Day on the 14th and their Paws at the Park event on the 22nd. Give Kay Hyman a call if you can help.

w 843-747-4849 X 206
c 843-224-0899
f 843-747-1012
spcak@jaspca.com
http://www.jaspca.com

Rover sheds some light on the subject
Another find via Design*Sponge - new lighting for fun loving, dog owning "blown-ups." Learn more about the lighting designer here.

I purchase an insane amount of Febreze. Poet just loves my couch a bit TOO much and in order to keep my house smelling like something other than dog, I give my couch, carpet, pillows and curtians a good spritz of Febreze about every other day. I've joked about taking out stock in order to off set my monthly expense. Well, if you are a Febreze junkie like me, we can now feel good about all that money we give to Febreze and other popular household goods this October.

USE YOUR PURCHASING POWER TO HELP HOMELESS PETS NOW THROUGH 10/14

When you think of ways to get involved in helping animals, a trip to the grocery store usually isn’t first on the list—but that’s exactly how you can become part of a special nationwide campaign to help shelter animals.
This fall, Kroger Stores and P&G are partnering with the ASPCA to make life better for homeless animals. Pet lovers can support the program by purchasing P&G brands at Kroger and its participating affiliates, King Soopers, Fry’s, Smiths, QFC, City Market and Gerbes. For every $10 purchase of Iams dog and cat food, Febreze, Swiffer or Bounce made now through Saturday, October 14, 10 percent of net retail sales will be donated to the ASPCA—up to a total donation of $50,000. For more information, visit http://www.aspca.org/helppets.

Lowcountry Dog and our advertisers are in the press again. Read all about it here or copy and paste the following address into your browser:
http://www.charlestonbusiness.com/current/12_21/news/7680-1.html

Charleston welcomes Fido
First published in the Charleston Business Journal Daily Newsletter

AAA has named Charleston the most pet-friendly city in South Carolina in its new travel guide for pet owners.

“Traveling With Your Pet: The AAA PetBook” lists 13,000 hotels and accommodations nationwide that allow pets.

“Nearly 70 million U.S. homes have at least one pet, a sizeable and lucrative market segment for the travel and tourism industry,” said Bill Wood, executive director of AAA Publishing.

According to Wood, 28% more hotels are pet-friendly now than were in 2003. The Travel Industry Association claims 29 million travelers take their pet with them; 78% of those pets are dogs. TIA found hotel pet policies affected 35% of those surveyed on their decision for lodging.

Charleston has 25 lodgings that accept pets. Although the city is No. 1 in South Carolina, it was not among those ranked nationally. The No. 1 pet-friendly city in the United States is Houston, which boasts 108 pet-accessible lodgings, three off-the-leash dog parks and 20 emergency veterinary hospitals.

I'm so happy about this one... us large dog owners have a VERY difficult time finding accommodaitons when traveling. Glad hotels are learning that most of the time the bigger the dog does not mean the bigger the damage.

Hotels Accepting Large Dogs Reach Niche Market

Knoxville, TN – October 3, 2006 – Hotels that accept large dogs are reaching their niche market and are edging out their competitors that have strict weight limits. According to a recent surveys, nearly 48% of travelers with pets travel with pets over 31 pounds. 34% of those surveyed travel with dogs over 50 pounds. Hotels are quickly realizing this untapped market and are adjusting weight limits to coincide with the growing market for large dog accommodations…
Read Full Release Here: http://www.petnewswire.com/digest/wd-t2700.html

ASPCA LAUNCHES ‘ASPCA PET HEALTH INSURANCE’
Country’s First Pet Insurance Product Developed for a National Humane Organization

NEW YORK, October 3, 2006—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced a brand-new offering that will improve the quality of life for pets and pet parents throughout the United States, and that comes with the backing of the country’s oldest animal welfare organization: ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. While pet insurance has been growing in popularity in recent years, this is the first product of its kind to be developed for and branded by a national animal welfare organization. For more information, please visit www.aspcapetinsurance.com .

Surgical treatments to which the ASPCA is opposed, such as tail docking, ear cropping and declawing are not covered, aligning with their mission of preventing cruelty to animals in the name of aesthetic ‘enhancement.

Good Idea!

Blueprint Magazine always offers up some good interior design ideas, and their doggie art DYI project is no exception. For a fun an unexpected visual centerpiece for your room, snap a photo of your pooch against a plain background, blow-it up, frame it and voila - ultra hip art. Click here for more how-to info.

Frightening New Canine Cancer is Contagious

Scientists in England recently announced that their preliminary genetic study of Sticker's Sarcoma in canines resulted in the discovery that the tumor cells are actually clones of one another. The study contained 40 dogs from 5 continents with the disease. Researchers believe that the parent tumor cell probably arose in a domesticated Asian dog more than 1,000 years ago. The disease spread as a contagiously over time through dogs biting or licking one another but primarily through sex.

To me, this sort of transmissible cancer is just one more reason why spaying and neutering is so important. Prevent overpopulation. Prevent disease. Prevent unnecessary death.

Adoptable Dane Puppies!

We just got wind of these adorable Great Dane pups in need of adoption. If you've ever wanted a Dane and wanted to experience the goofy adorable-ness that only a Dane pup give (okay, okay I'm a little partial) then now's your chance! These sweet pups are in need of a loving homes. Contact the rescue here for adoption info.

Poop Confessions Are Back!Is Your Dog Next?
You may not be aware of it, but if you’re like many pet owners, when you go away, your dog goes, too on the carpet, in the closet, even on the bed! In fact, dogs across the nation have been confessing to such wrongdooings for quite a while now, and we’ve caught it all on tape.Check out the latest Poop Confessions we’ve filmed. And, while you’re at it, consider sharing your dog’s dirty little secrets with us. The new secondnature® brand dog litter Poop Confessions Contest* has just begun, and your pooch might have what it takes to come clean and win big!

Don't Throw the Pooch Out with the Bathwater

While we all enjoy a good snuggle with our dogs and might even share our beds, there's not many of us who are thrilled with the idea of sharing bath water. Who wants dog gunk on the rim of their tub? Well, MTI whirlpool has developed the world's first canine whirlpool spa. Not only will this help you keep your own tub free of fido's fuzz, but the swrirling waters of this private bath can be very theraputic to dogs, especially those with arthritis.

The whirlpool is shelf cleaning, comes with a handheld shower head, boasts 5 massage heads and can be installed in any garage, laundry room or bathroom. Click here to learn more.

Only in Cali

Only in California can one find a surfing competition for dogs. Using special dog sized surfboards, doggie dudes can hang 10 in front of a panel of judges.

Not a mother yet but...

I'm not a monther yet but I can't help but feel the urge to stock up on the dog embroidered onsies available at Sprout. They're just so adorable!

JOE RAEDLE / GETTY IMAGES

Too Far? or Too Fun?

8th generation Miami wigmaker Ruth Regina is now creating a line of small wigs and hair pieces for pocket sized pooches. Priced in the hundreds of dollars, Regina's pieces include the "Yappy Hour" which is a small mop of fun curls and the "Peek a Bow Wow" designed to fall down over one of the dog's eyes giving it a sexy 1940's screen siren look. The dog wigs can all be dyed and styled to meet each dog (and dog owner's) style needs. What will they think of next? Have we gone too far? Or is this just all in good fun?
ANGEL VALENTIN / MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS

What Ails Your Dog?

Veterinary Pet Insurance released its annual top 10 list of reasons why dog owners take their dogs to the veterinarian. The list was compiled from actual claims filed with America's largest pet insurer:
1. Skin allergies
2. Ear infections
3. Stomach upsets
4. Bladder infections
5. Benign tumors
6. Osteoarthritis
7. Sprains
8. Eye infections
9. Enteritis
10. Hypothyroidism

New Items at PawPurri

Raise your banner high for your breed of choice. Breed Flags are now available at PawPurri for Pets. $23.99 for the flag and the pole or $15.99 for the flag alone.

While you're there, check out PawPurri's line of spa products for your pooch. I loved this Terry Cloth robe complete with a rubber ducky on the back. I've yet to meet a dog that actually enjoys a bath, but this warm snuggly robe might make the torture worth it!

PawPurri for Pets
Boutique Daycare Salon
1120 Folly Road
James Island, SC 29412
843-795-5779

Take a look at these cheerful little fellows. Dogs do brighten up our lives but the Dachshund Lamps from Offi do it quite literally.

Veterinary Specialty Care in Mt. Pleasant Hires Veterinary Oncologist

Kathryn Taylor D.V.M., an Auburn U grad, recently joined Veterinary Specialty Care as the Charleston area's first veterinary oncologist. Instead of traveling to state vet programs, Charleston canines can stay right here for diagnosis and treatment. We are glad to welcome Dr. Kathryn Taylor to Charleston.

Veterinary Specialty Care
(843) 884-2441 930 Pine Hollow Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

PUT YOUR PAW PRINT ON THE AKC RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNER PET PROMISE

Sometimes we all need a reminder of everything that is required of us as dog owners. Sure we give our pups lots of playtime, treats and affection, but what about training? Is your dog groomed as often as his breed requires? Is your pup wearing a collar with tags and permanently identified with a microchip to maximize his chances of being returned to you if he becomes lost?

Bringing the message of AKC ® Responsible Dog Ownership Day to life, the American Kennel Club ® today announced the launch of the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise. This 10-step oath is a reminder to both novice and veteran dog owners that raising a healthy dog is about more than just playtime and pampering. Training, grooming, exercise and veterinary care are equally important in nurturing your best friend.

The AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise also advocates that owners must ensure that their canines do not infringe on the rights of others. This means adhering to local leash laws, properly disposing of your dog’s waste in all public areas, and training your dogs to sit, stay and come when called.

AKC petitions all dog owners to review the AKC Responsible Dog Owner Pet Promise and sign it electronically at http://www.gopetition.com/online/9290.html

SOOOOOO COMFY!

Don't these quilted beds from Cheengoo look so comfy that you could just curl up on them for a nice long nap? Forget the dog. I think I want one of these for myself! Do they make them in human sizes? And the textile choices for these beds are such cool retro patterns . We just love 'em!

SPEAK!: What folks are saying about LCD


I love Lowcountry Dog! I am a vet tech and of course a dog lover!! I love reading stories and hearing about upcoming events and seeing pictures of dogs in the lowcountry. Unlike other magazines, all the ads are located in Charleston! No matter how hard a day I am having I can always look at this magazine and it just puts a smile on my face!
Dana, Charleston


I LOVE it! I am enjoying seeing all of the pet specialty places I never knew about, and the articles are entertaining and informative.
Rhonda. Goose Creek


Wonderful, straight forward, animal loving print! THANK YOU!!! Please keep supporting local businesses so I know where to go!
Jeni, Mt. Pleasant


Its a very nice magazine and covers a lot of advertiers in you area. Very good short stories. I'll be purchasing a subscription.
Sharon, St. Simons Island GA


I love the coverage that they give to dog lovers in the area. We are a special breed and you cater to us. I love the ads especially, if you can believe that!! The articles are good too, but the ads are so creative! I get good ideas on where to shop and browse new stores.
Cindy, Mt. Pleasant

Pet Food Expert “Comparing Grocery Store Brand to All Natural” Seminar To Benefit Pet Helpers

Mark Hamilton, Regional Representative for Phillips Feed in Charlotte NC will give a seminar “What's In Your Pet's Bowl?” comparing different pet foods and how certain ingredients can harm or help your pet.

The cost for this seminar is $7 which will benefit Pet Helpers. The speaking engagement will be at PawPurri For Pets Boutique, Daycare and Salon, Thursday, August 10th 6p – 7p with a questiion/answer session. Bring a beach chair to sit and listen to how you can change your pet's diet and improve on his/her health.

Lemonade and treats will be provided.

Please call PawPurri For Pets to reserve a seat at the Pet Food Seminar – info@PawPurri4 Pets.com or call 843-795-5779

Sterilization Contraception for Dogs and Cats: a low cost alternative to spaying and neutering?

An estimated five million cats and dogs die each year in US shelters, many of them offspring of pets whose owners didn't get them sterilized. But what if there was a quick and easy way to sterilize cats and dogs, without surgery?

The Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs (ACC&D), the ASPCA and Petfinder.com are fighting to make this idea a reality for all pets. Sign the petition to lend your support!

Surgical sterilization is logistically difficult and expensive for population control of un-owned animals. Having injection based sterilizations, rather than surgical spaying and neutering, would be an easy and affordable solution to the problem of overpopulation that leads to rampant colonies of feral cats and the overcrowding of local pounds.

Overpopulation is now the leading cause of death for dogs and cats around the world. The situation is even more desperate in countries where geographic, economic and cultural barriers prevent use of sterilization to control dog and cat populations.

Non-surgical sterilization methods do not currently exist, but they could with the right funding, research and public support! Use your voice to make this medical technology a top priority!Help The Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs (ACC&D), the ASPCA and Petfinder.com pressure pharmaceutical companies, scientists, regulators and funders to develop tools for non-surgical sterilization of cats and dogs now!

Mixed Bred vs. Purebred
by Gale Fennell
Dog lover for 41 years and LCD reader

I have never owned a purebred dog. When I was a child in the seventies, people didn’t have their pets spayed or neutered. Our dog Sandy, who was a cross between a Pekinese and a Pug herself, only had one litter of puppies before my father came up with his own solution to the problem. My father was from the old school that used good ole ingenuity to solve any problem that would otherwise cost him hard earned cash. He decided to put Sandy on the roof every time she went into heat. I know, that’s the craziest thing you’ve ever heard of, but it worked. There were plenty of trees to provide shade for the roof of our single story ranch. The chimney made a perfect spot to prop her doghouse. We had a very large Mimosa tree right outside our kitchen window and every night at feeding time, my brothers and I would take turns climbing up to give her food and water. You cannot imagine the looks and comments we got from passers by whom happened to notice there was a dog on the roof.

It goes without saying if my father would not spring to have an animal “fixed”, he certainly would not spring for a purebred. But not a problem, I have never had trouble falling in love with any puppy. I got my first puppy when I was about ten years old. He was a cocker spaniel and poodle mix. His name was Smokey. (Since Smokey came from the SPCA, he was already neutered when we got him.) Smokey was a free spirit that ran the streets until I was a freshman in high school. He was my best friend. Smokey looked just like Benji. Remember Benji, that loveable mixed breed whom all of America fell in love with? Why would anyone want to pay for a purebred when they could have Benji?

When I was ready to get my first dog as an adult, I wanted the cute little white shih tzu for a mere three or four hundred dollars (this was during the eighties). My husband, not all that unlike my father, insisted I first look for a free dog to see if there would be one I liked. I think he knew what he was doing. Of course the first puppy I saw was love at first sight. He was a mix between cocker spaniel and terrier; a cute white, fluffy dog, not all that different from a shih tzu. Needless to say, I loved that dog as my own child, for sixteen wonderful years. His name was Mickey and we just lost him last summer.

When Mickey was just one year old, we adopted another mixed breed named Pepper. Pepper was our neighbor’s dog and she was the most beautiful and wonderful dog that could ever have been created. We were never able to determine exactly what breeds she came from. We are pretty sure she had some English sheep dog and terrier, maybe Yorkie, in her. Her disposition was that of the sweetest, gentlest kind. And her beautiful white flowing fur, precious paws and eyes that you could barely see for the long bangs, made her a sight to behold. If ever I were to clone a dog, it would be Pepper. There could not be a pure bred in this world more precious to me than Pepper was. Pepper only lived to be twelve years old. Losing her was like losing a dear friend.


Several years after Pepper’s death, we decided to get another puppy for our young son. Living in Miami, we visited several animal shelters before finding our dog. Yes, again we chose a mixed breed. This time we were looking for something in the beagle/labrador family. She is a beautiful white dog (we had to stick with white so the shedding would match that of Mickey) of about sixty pounds. Her name is Jackie and she is quite a bit bigger than Mickey and Pepper. The largest dog we have had yet. Jackie has the physique of a statue. Her posture and sleek body are absolutely stunning. Being of labrador descent, she can be quite hyper and has a very loud bark, but mind you, we love her every bit as much as if she were a purebred.

And finally there is Lilly. After Mickey’s passing, my daughter insisted on her own dog. Desiring to once again have a white dog (to match Jackie’s shedding) we visited the SPCA here in Mt. Pleasant, every day for two solid weeks before we found her. When I opened the door and saw her beautiful black eyes staring at us from that itty-bitty bundle of white fur, I knew she was our dog. She was so shy and timid, I couldn’t bare to leave her there another night. We hadn’t planned for another dog that soon, but she was the perfect fit. And she has been the perfect addition to our family. She and Jackie fell in love right away. They are like mother and daughter with a stunning resemblance to one another. We haven’t even had Lilly a whole year and yet I can’t believe we ever lived without her. She is truly a joy to have in our home.

Each one of these dogs represents a melting pot of breeds. Each one is unique in physical qualities as well as personality. They have brought an individualness to our lives that couldn’t be duplicated. I could have gotten a pure bred so that I knew exactly what the dog would look like when it grew up, and maybe have some guarantee to the personality it would have, but I can’t imagine that we would have loved it more than the dogs we have had. It couldn’t have been anymore accepted into our family than our beloved mixed breeds.

As an adult myself, I have decided its worth my hard earned cash not to put my dog on the roof. As a passionate citizen concerned for the plight of so many unwanted animals, I wholeheartedly believe in spaying and neutering, at whatever the expense. I understand this practice will eventually eliminate mixed breeds. However, there are so many unwanted animals, something has to be done to reduce the population. I say consider an alternative to purebred dogs; adopt a mixed breed and spay or neuter them. Give generously to your local shelters and sponsor spay or neuter procedures for dogs whose owners wouldn't be able to afford it otherwise.

Hurricane Guide:

IN PREPARATION
Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations.
Pet friendly shelters require proof of vaccines.
Have a current photograph.
Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal. Pet friendly shelters require them. Practice putting it together quickly.
Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet!
Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies would be waived in an emergency.
Make a list of animal-friendly places and keep it handy.
Call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home.
Check with friends, relatives, or others outside your immediate area to see if they would shelter you and your animals or just your animals, if necessary.
Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in emergencies; include 24-hour telephone numbers.
Ask your local animal shelter if it provides foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. This should be your last resort, as shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched to their limits during an emergency.

DURING THE DISASTER
If you are able, leave early. Don't wait for a mandatory evacuation order. An unnecessary trip is far better than waiting too long to leave safely with your pets. If you wait to be evacuated by emergency officials, you may be told to leave your pets behind.
Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have:
proper identification collar and rabies tagproper identification on all belongings
a carrier or cage
a leash
a muzzle for dog aggressivee dogs
an ample supply of food, water (1 gallon for every 10lbs.) food bowls, any medications
specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up

Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.
Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis.
Call ahead and determine availability.

AFTER THE DISASTER
Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost.
Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.
If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered.
Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

SHELTER AND HOTEL INFO:
The North Charleston Coliseum will provide shelter only for those people who can not otherwise evacuate with their pets. Entry is limited to one person per pet.

The following hotel chains are pet friendly and there are several just a few hours away from Charleston that would serve as a refuge from the storm.
Best Western: 800-528-1234
Clarion: 800-252-7466
Comfort Inn: 800-228-5150
Days Inn: 800-329-7466
Econo Lodge: 800-553-2666
Holiday Inn: 800-465-4329
Quality Inn: 800-228-5151
Ramada Inn: 800-228-2828
Residence Inn: 800-331-3131

Also check out www.vrbo.com, a search engine for vacation and short term rentals across the US. You can search specifically for pet friendly homes, townhouses and villas to rent.

Pure Whimsy

I'm a major designsponge ( a a daily website dedicated to home and product design) addict and I'm always pleased to see man's best friend incorporated into forward thinking design. Just this week designsponge introduced me to Swedish painter Camilla Engman. Engman's work is very whimsical, yet simple. I'm no art critic, but I enjoy her folk art-esque style. According to designsponge founder Grace Bonney, Engman's prints are affordable too!

Health and Wellness: Common Household Hazards
by Brian King DVM The Pet Vet in Mt. Pleasant

There are many potential toxins in the average household. Most dog owners are aware of some of these household products that could cause their pets to become sick. Chocolate, antifreeze, and pesticides are three possible poisons that many owners are attentive to. However, there are a number of common items that could be dangerous to dogs that you may not know about. If your dog consumes one of these substances, there is the possibility of some level of toxicity, but not all dogs will react adversely.

Toilet Water (Tank Drop-Ins)--Typically toilet tank drop-ins contain corrosive agents, yet concentration is very low when mixed with the water in the bowl.
Ingestion can cause nausea and mild vomiting with occasional ulceration of the mouth and tongue.

Cigarettes and Cigars--These harbor between 15-40 milligrams of nicotine with the filters carrying 25% of the total nicotine content. If the dog experiences adverse effects, the symptoms usually come on quickly, typically within 45 minutes. Watch for neurological signs such as muscle tremor, weakness, collapse, or even a coma. The lethal dose is approximately nine milligrams per kilogram; translating to between five to eight cigarettes for a 50 pound dog.

Pennies--Ingestion of coins is very common in dogs. Pennies minted since 1983 contain 99.2% zinc and 0.8% copper making them a rich source of zinc. Zinc can cause the rupturing of red blood cells, which can result in anemia. Hardware supplies such as nuts, bolts, and screws are another source of zinc so should be kept in a dog-proof container.

Bread Dough--Raw Bread dough made with yeast poses threats if consumed by your dog. The warm, moist environment of the stomach stimulates yeast growth which can cause gastric distention that can be quite severe. Perhaps even more significant is the release of alcohol from the yeast fermentation (beer). This can result in a drunken state and metabolic acidosis.

Moth Balls-- Moth balls are usually either 100% Naphthalene or 99% Para dichlorobenzene. The Naphthalene moth balls are twice as toxic. Like zinc, Naphthalene can cause rupturing of red blood cells.Para dichlorobenzene affects the liver and nervous system. It can take up to three days for your dog to show symptoms if it becomes poisoned by moth balls.

Mold--Many dogs will eat almost anything, including moldy food. The mold can be made up of tremorgenic myco(fungal)toxins and are a common, yet under diagnosed cause of tremors and seizures in dogs.

Ant and Roach Baits--Baits can include safe ingredients such as peanut butter or sugar, making them an attractive treat for dogs. The insecticides used in these baits usually poses little threat to dogs and rarely do they require treatment if ingested.

Silica Gel Packets--These are common in medication and food packaging and if consumed, can result in mild stomach upset.

Birth Control Pills--Each packet of oral contraceptives contains 21 pills of estrogen or progesterone. If too much or either hormone is eaten by your dog, bone marrow suppression can occur. If levels of ingestion are greater than one milligram per kilogram (about 22 milligram per 50 pound dog) than medical treatment is needed. Today’s birth control pills contain very small amounts of estrogen or progesterone and a 50 pound dog would have to eat at least a whole packet to need treatment.

Liquid Potpourri--The ingredients in these products often include essential oils and detergents. Essential oils can mildly irritate the mouth and stomach, whereas detergents can cause sever ulceration and pain in the same areas.

Ingestion of household toxins is a very common occurrence with dogs. Some dogs are more likely than others to eat things they are not supposed to. It is important to know what potential poisons are in your residence and effects they can have. Of course, anything that could be dangerous to your dog should not be available to him. However, accidents happen, so call your veterinarian if you have any questions or problems.

ASPCA Animal Control Center: www.apcc.aspca.com

Brian King can be reached at www.petvetdogdaze.com

I just can't help it...

but I love this T-shirt, aptly named Satan's Little Helper, available at Threadless. It's the perfect mix of historical wit and nearly- over-the-edge humor. My favorite part of this design is that the artists depict Cerebrus as such an adorable breed: The LAB. So sinister.

This shirt isn't for everyone, but I bet there's a few LCD readers brave enough to walk around the Lowcountry sporting this design.

Threadless is an online T-shirt design contest. Winners are chosen each week. To learn more visit Treadless by clicking here.

Looking for clever eCards for any occasion including I Love My Pet Week? Try Hipster Cards, a new online ecard service with fresh designs that knock the pants off of tired ol' Hallmark.

Calling All Adorable Rescued Animals

Of course, your dog or cat is the cutest in the universe, but can you prove it? Send us the very best “glamour shot” of your adorable rescued animal friend, along with details of the rescue and a description of just what makes him or her so special, and you’ll be entered to win a basket full of vegan dog biscuits, cat toys, and other goodies. Plus, your gorgeous mutt’s mug may grace the pages of a future issue of PETA’s Animal Times magazine.

Voting begins August 31, so be sure to come back and vote for your favorite photo! Enter Here. The picture above is last year's winner. Let's help a DOG win this year!

Local Art Piece of the Month
Compliments of Dog Art Dealer

Marty Whaley Adam's painting of "Lucy Spector Thinking about all the wonderful stories about Charleston Dogs that were Submitted to Her" watercolor (PRINT 13 X 17 ½ $150)
Marty Whaley Adams Pet Portrait & Dog paintings If you want to see more of Marty Whaley Adams work you can visit http://www.dogartdealer.com/adams/index.shtml

Meet Eddie....an eclectic Edisto Island Pup

Dear Friends in Rescue, This darling boy is being fostered by an animal lover on Edisto who has four Golden Retrievers and a Senior Girl who has just been diagnosed with Cancer. We need a foster home,placement or a no kill Shelter who will take this boy in. Our local rescue group only has three persons and one member has 10 dogs and cats, Pat has 5 and I have 5. The age old problem of never enough fosters. IF you can help, Pat will donate $300 to your group and pay to have Eddie neutered. salleyw@bellsouth.net

Eddie is a medium-sized, retriever/lab boy and weighs 50 lbs. He has medium to long black hair (about the same length as that found on a Golden Retriever). He is a quick learner & has loves him am walks on a leash, He is energetic as someone his age should be. He is partially, if not completely, housebroken. He does not mess the area in which he is kept. He is crate trained. He loves to chase and retrieve tennis balls.
http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=6625284

Animal Welfare Ordinance City Council Meeting
PLEASE mark your calendars and try to attend this very important Chas. County Council meeting , Tuesday, August 22nd 6:55 pm at the Chas County Adm. Building. Voice your support for this animal welfare ordinance that would make it illegal to give or sell animals on public right of ways, parking lots, flea markets, etc. This was recently passed in Berkeley County - but it took a great many of us going to every meeting and letting our elected officials know how important this is for our animals.

Advice to Dog Owners Whose Pets Take NSAIDs
by Michele Sharkey, DVM, Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation; Margarita Brown, DVM, Office of Surveillance and Compliance; and Linda Wilmot, DVM, Office of New Animal Drug Evaluation

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) have provided pain control for many dogs and offer significant benefits. But it is important that you are aware of potential side effects when administering drugs to your dog. All NSAIDs should be used with caution, because they all have the potential for serious side effects, especially gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, perforations, even in rare cases kidney damage and liver problems.

The best way to avoid the possibility of your dog suffering serious side effects from NSAIDs is for you to be fully informed about the drug and its potential side effects.

NSAIDs approved for use in dogs contain the following information on their labels:
All dogs should undergo a thorough history and physical examination before initiation of NSAID therapy. Appropriate laboratory tests to establish baseline blood values prior to, and periodically during, the use of any NSAID are strongly recommended.
As an owner, you should receive a Client Information Sheet with every NSAID prescription. You should ask your veterinarian for this sheet if you do not receive one. One way to be better informed is to read this information carefully before administering the medication to your dog, so that you understand the side effects that your dog may experience.
When administering an NSAID, you should watch for these side effects:
* Decrease or increase in appetite
* Vomiting
* Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea, or black, tarry, or bloody stools)
* Change in behavior (such as decreased or increased activity level, incoordination, seizure or aggression)-
* Yellowing of gums, skin, or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
* Change in drinking habits (frequency, amount consumed)
* Change in urination habits (frequency, color, or smell)
* Change in skin (redness, scabs, or scratching)
If you notice any of these possible side effects, stop the medication and contact your veterinarian.

The side effects listed on the label are the most common. All possible side effects are not included. Always contact your veterinarian if you have questions about your dog's medication.

What starts out as a minor problem can readily progress to an emergency. If you feel that your concerns are not taken seriously, you should get another opinion. You may even call the drug manufacturer (a toll free number appears on each Client Information Sheet). Pharmaceutical companies offer customer service and technical support for product information and quality control. When possible problems are experienced with a product, the manufacturer may have specific recommendations for your veterinarian regarding tests and treatments.

Reporting adverse drug experiences
If you or your veterinarian suspect a potential reaction associated with the use of an NSAID (or any drug), report it to the pharmaceutical company. All NSAIDs approved for use in dogs have a toll free number on their labels to which a suspected reaction can be reported. If unable to report problems directly to the pharmaceutical company, veterinarians and dog owners are encouraged to report veterinary Adverse Drug Experiences (ADE) and suspected product failures to the government agency that regulates the product in question. In the case of NSAIDs, the adverse experiences are to be reported to the Center for Veterinary Medicine.

Questions regarding ADE Reporting should be addressed to:
Center for Veterinary Medicine
Division of Surveillance, HFV-210
7519 Standish Place
Rockville, MD 20855
1-888-FDA-VETS

With this information in hand, you are now equipped to advocate for your dog in order to assure that he or she receives the best care possible. Take the time to be your "dog's best friend."

Still in the process of moving, but I couldn't resist a just a "tiny" bit of online shopping. Take a look at these adorable cereal bowls I found today. Now it's not so bad if your kids call each other "dog-face" over breakfast.

Butter Yellow Dogface Cereal Bowls5" wide x 3" high- Set of 2 delicious hand-painted butter yellow bowls with a canine surprise at the bottom. Great for cereal, ice-cream, anything really. $24.00 here.

Okay, okay I know I said I was moving and wouldn't be posting, but this was too important to wait.

Pet Store Challenge
What:Help stop puppy mills by taking a survey and submitting it to the Humane Society.
Why: Who’ll let the dogs out? (Woof, woof, woof.)
Where: Online at stoppuppymills.org.

Hi Folks:

I'm moving over the next couple of weeks so I won't be able to post as often as I like. Once I get settled in my new place I'll get back into the groove of posting every day or so.

Take Care!
Leah

FlyBall Mini-Workshop Presented by The Charleston Dog Training Club

The Charleston Dog Training Club will be holding a mini-workshop on the dog sport of flyball, Saturday June 24th at Ackerman Park in West Ashley. The workshop will be conducted by Kathy Cole and Lori Duncan and we will have an opportunity to watch their dogs demonstrate flyball and then learn some basics with our dogs. Please bring lots of extra yummy treats for training and a crate for your dog to rest in. Also there is shade at the park but if anyone has pop-up canopies, please bring them along with folding chairs and plenty of water for you and your dog. Friends and guests with well mannered dogs are welcome! Because it will be hot we will have a kiddie pool for dogs to cool off in and request everyone bring an extra gallon of water to help fill the pool.

To learn more about flyball check out these web sites:
http://www.flyball.org
http://www.u-fli.com

Please bring your picnic lunch and also a side dish or dessert to share.

Directions:
Map to Ackerman Park can be found at:
http://www.ci.charleston.sc.us/dept/content.aspx?nid=213&cid=972

ALSO: Don't forget the meeting at the Danny Jones Armory on June 20th at 7:30. A K-9 patrol officer from the sheriff's dept. will talk about training and use of patrol dogs. Human guests are welcome, but remember the Armory has requested not to bring dogs into the meeting rooms without their prior approval.

Call or email for more info:
729-5499
dsnyir@knology.net

The Pet Care Place to offer KIDZ N KANINE KAMP

Does your child love dogs? Does you child seem to bring home every lost or injured animal in your neighborhood? If so, then KIDZ N KANINE KAMP is for him/her.

For the first time and exclusively at The Pet Care Place, Charleston area animal care professionals will offer a week-long, fun and educational day camp for children aged 10-12 who love dogs and all critters large and small. Each day will include exciting speakers in the animal care professions, education sessions, relevant crafts, snacks and hands on time with all types of animals.

Children will get the chance to interact one to one with Animal Control Officers; Wild animal rehabilitators; Dog Rescuers; Professional Dog Trainer; Groomer; Veterinary Technician; Hobby Farmer and others. They will get behind-the-scenes tours of a veterinary surgery suite, boarding kennel and rescue adoption center.

Guests include:
City of Charleston Animal Control Officers
Tommy Grammer, Charleston School for Dogs
South Carolina Center for Birds of Prey
Keeper of the Wild
Ron LeBoeuf, Hobby Farmer

The camp will be Monday through Friday, June 26-30, 2006, from 9:00 a.m. until noon. The cost is $125 and includes everything. Class size is limited so register now by calling 572-9155 or stopping by The Pet Care Place at 9594 Koester Road in Ladson. Deadline to register is Friday, June 23, 2006.
Camp sponsorship and donation opportunities are available.


MISSION STATEMENT: To instill the principles of responsible pet ownership in the community by providing sterilization services, pet care services, education programs and rescue adoption services.

"It's 2 o'clock in the afternoon. Do you know what your pets are listening to? DogCatRadio, if you're among the 6.2 million listeners who tune in to this Internet radio station every week." So says the Denver Post about DogCatradio.com, the latest internet based radio station created specifically for lonely and bored dogs and cats. Tune in today to enjoy a variety of upbeat music, pet-advice and pet commercials that are sure to get you moving and your dog's tail wagging.

Hurricane Guide:

IN PREPARATION

Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet friendly shelters require proof of vaccines.

Have a current photograph.

Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.

Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal. Pet friendly shelters require them. Practice putting it together quickly.

Plan your evacuation strategy and don't forget your pet!

Contact hotels and motels outside your immediate area to check policies on accepting pets. Ask about any restrictions on number, size, and species. Ask if "no pet" policies would be waived in an emergency. Make a list of animal-friendly places and keep it handy. Call ahead for a reservation as soon as you think you might have to leave your home.

Check with friends, relatives, or others outside your immediate area to see if they would shelter you and your animals or just your animals, if necessary.

Make a list of boarding facilities and veterinary offices that might be able to shelter animals in emergencies; include 24-hour telephone numbers.

Ask your local animal shelter if it provides foster care or shelter for pets in an emergency. This should be your last resort, as shelters have limited resources and are likely to be stretched to their limits during an emergency.

DURING THE DISASTER

If you are able, leave early. Don't wait for a mandatory evacuation order. An unnecessary trip is far better than waiting too long to leave safely with your pets. If you wait to be evacuated by emergency officials, you may be told to leave your pets behind.

Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have:
proper identification collar and rabies tag
proper identification on all belongings
a carrier or cage
a leash
a muzzle for dogaggressivee dogs
an ample supply of food, water (1 gallon for every 10lbs.) food bowls, any medications
specific care instructions and news papers or trash bags for clean-up

Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm - reassure them and remain calm.

Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead and determine availability.

AFTER THE DISASTER

Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home - often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster.

If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible.

After a disaster animals can become aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior.

SHELTER AND HOTEL INFO:

The North Charleston Coliseum will provide shelter only for those people who can not otherwise evacuate with their pets. Entry is limited to one person per pet.

The following hotel chains are pet friendly and there are several just a few hours away from Charleston that would serve as a refuge from the storm.

Best Western: 800-528-1234
Clarion: 800-252-7466
Comfort Inn: 800-228-5150
Days Inn: 800-329-7466
Econo Lodge: 800-553-2666
Holiday Inn: 800-465-4329
Quality Inn: 800-228-5151
Ramada Inn: 800-228-2828
Residence Inn: 800-331-3131

Also check out www.vrbo.com, a search engine for vacation and short term rentals across the US. You can search specifically for pet friendly homes, townhouses and villas to rent.

Last Minute Event Alert
JASPCA Cookout at Earth Fare

Saturday May 27th the JASPCA will be the beneficiaries of a cook-out at both Earth Fare locations in Mt.Pleasant and in West Ashley. They will be cooking Hot Dogs and Veggie and Beef Burgers. The lunch will be $5 per plate and half of that goes to the shelter. Cook-outs will run from 11am-2pm. Volunteers are needed at both locations...Shifts are 9am-12 and 12-3. They will try to have animals on site if they are available. Please contact info@jaspca.com for more info.

Last Minute Event Alert
Pet Helpers' A Tail of a Sale!!!

Calling all bargain hunters! A ”tail of a sale” will be held in May to benefit Pet Helpers Adoption Shelter. The shelter is having its annual garage sale to raise money for operational costs. Pet Helpers is currently seeking donations of baby-toddler items, furniture, tools, pet items, household items and any other items in good, working condition. All items donated will be considered as tax-deductible contributions.

The garage sale will be held May 27 from 8 to 3 pm at 1409 Folly Road (in the parking lot of the shopping center where All’s Well and Buffalo South are located). Hotdogs, drinks, water and brownies will be available for a small donation!

Pet Helpers is also seeking volunteers to help out with the garage sale and is continually seeking applications for volunteers in and around the shelter. Please contact Gina Anton for questions about either the garage sale or volunteering at 795-1110.

Pet Helpers is a private nonprofit 501 (c) 3 rescue and adoption facility located on James Island. Pet Helpers concentrates its activities in the areas of adoption, spay/neuter assistance, and education. All animals are kept until adopted. For more information please contact the shelter at 795-1110 or to view animals available for adoption, visit our web site at www.pethelpers.org.

AKC SURVEY FINDS MAJORITY OF OWNERS WOULD DEFY EMERGENCY EVACUATION ORDERS AND STAY WITH PETS

-- Despite Ominous Predictions for 2006 Hurricane Season, Poll Shows Even Responsible Pet Owners Not Prepared For an Emergency --

New York , NY – A survey conducted by the American Kennel Club ® shows that pet owners overwhelmingly consider their four-legged companions as members of the family. If forced to evacuate their homes to a location where they could not bring their pets, 62% of those polled would defy the authorities and stay with their animals.

The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service is expecting “an above-average Atlantic hurricane season.” The season officially starts June 1. This week, May 21-27, is NOAA’s National Hurricane Preparedness Week.

Majority are Responsible Pet Owners
A significant majority of those surveyed are responsible, caring pet owners.
97% would take their pets with them in case of an evacuation
97% keep up with vaccinations
79% permanently identify their pets through microchipping or tattoo
62% have a family evacuation plan in case a natural disaster hits
61% have a pet evacuation plan
23% were prompted to design an emergency plan for their pet after Hurricanes Katrina/Rita
91% of owners say they have a copy of their pet’s vaccination records, 79% have their AKC registration papers, 93% have an extra leash and 89% have extra dog food—some of the basics for a pet disaster kit

Despite Love for Pets, Owners Not Ready for an Emergency
While survey respondents overwhelmingly consider their animals to be members of the family, there are some troubling indicators that many are not prepared to safely evacuate their pets if the need arises.

Of those who do not have an evacuation plan for their pet, 22% say it is because they live in a geographic location that isn’t a likely target for terrorism or is not susceptible to natural disasters or other disasters, while over half (52%) said they would like to have one but didn’t know how.

While a majority of owners have vaccination records and extra food and water on hand for their pets, three quarters (76%) do not have the items assembled in a portable pet disaster kit in the case of an immediate evacuation.

55% of respondents do not have a list of hotels that accept pets outside their area’s evacuation zone.

“The threat of a disaster, both natural and otherwise, is always present,” said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “While those owners surveyed obviously love and care greatly for their pets, it’s alarming that many of them are not prepared to safely evacuate their animals at a moment’s notice. With hurricane season at our doorstep and the continued threat of terrorism, we advise that all pet owners prepare well in advance for all kinds of emergency situations and always heed the advice of authorities.”

“We are expecting an above-average hurricane season,” said Dennis Feltgen, Meteorologist and Public Affairs Officer for the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service. “Prepare, prepare, prepare. We know that people who have a hurricane plan, and execute that plan, fare much better than those that do not. Many people consider their pets as members of the family, and we saw evidence of this in the Gulf region during Katrina. Some shelters may take pets, but many will not. Make sure your pet is part of your storm plan.”

Pet Owners Level of Preparedness Varies by Region

Southeast (including Gulf States)
The impact of hurricanes Katrina and Rita were apparent in the survey findings, as Southeast residents are the most prepared to safely evacuate their pets in case of an emergency, with nearly three quarters of those polled (74%) reporting that they have an evacuation plan for their pet and 29% reporting they have a pet disaster kit assembled.

Over a quarter (28%) of Southeast residents designed a pet evacuation plan because of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Over half (58%) have always had a pet emergency plan.

Dog-Gone It We Love This Wrapping Paper

Who could resist these little guys? These vibrant silhouettes and bits of canine wisdom are sure to develop a loyal following among dog lovers. This collection contains 2 sheets of each design for a total of 8 sheets. $4.50 at Whimsy Press

YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT IS NEEDED TO ABOLISH COCKFIGHTING AND HOG DOG FIGHTING IN SC


The bill (H. 3344) which would significantly strengthen the penalties for cockfighting was passed by the state house last year but is currently stalled in the state senate.

The bill (S. 229) which would abolish hog dog fighting passed the state senate. It was then sent to a house judiciary sub-committee which amended it by adding all of the provisions of H. 3344 (this was reportedly done in response to H. 3344 being stalled in the senate).

This more comprehensive S. 229 (which also provides for property forfeiture in animal fighting cases) passed the house judiciary sub-committee and full judiciary committee. It is expected to be voted on by the full state house as early as Thursday, May 18, 2006.

YOUR HELP IS URGENTLY NEEDED

Please contact the state house member representing your district and ask him/her to support S 229. You can find the name and contact information for your representative at http://wwwscstatehouse.net/cgi-bin/zipcodesearch.exe.

Because time is of essence, please call your lawmaker’s legislative office in Columbia as soon as possible to voice your opinion.

Pet Fest Model Contest Winner Announced

Congrats to Morgan, the winner of our Pet Fest Cover Model Contest. Morgan's owners, John and Molly Dotson, are very proud and can't wait to see her on the cover of the June/July issue.

Thanks to all who participated in the contest. It was a tough decision!

Last Minute Event! Disaster Response Team Seminar


Charleston Dog Training Club will be hosting a guest speaker at our next meeting, Tuesday, May 16, 2006. Shawn Jones is the coordinator of the Disaster Animal Response Team “DART” for the Community Emergency Response Team “CERT”, a program managed by the Charleston County Emergency Preparedness Division. See website: http://www.charlestoncounty.org/index2.asp?p=/departments/epd/cert/dart.htm

Mr. Shawn Jones will be speaking about hurricane preparedness, particularly addressing our pets and shelter and evacuation issues involved in responsible pet stewardship.

All members, guests, and interested persons are invited to attend. The meeting will start at 7:30pm and the guest speaker will be first on the agenda. Our meeting site is the Danny Jones Armory off of Mixson Ave. in North Charleston. Please contact Debbie Fritts (dfritts656@hotmail.com) or Debbie Snyir (dsnyir@knology.net ) for more information and directions.

Small Dog Not Included
The small dog isn't included... but we love this recycled materials bag so much because it a) has enough room for your small dog b) the manufacturer plants a tree each time a bag is purchased! So buy this bag in celebration of this past Arbor Day and little pooches that can be carried around.

The ecoist large confetti tote bag measures 18" long by 10 " tall and is approximately 5" deep. There is a detachable orange nylon zip pouch inside to store your valuables. Buy it here.

New Trend: Educational Toys for Dogs

Can we help our dogs become smarter? From the looks of things, it seems that with the stimulation of some educational toys your pooch might just become the smartest dog on the block.

Take these pyramids for example, available at dog.com. Your dog must figure out how to pull out the central section which houses a tasty treat.

Now only if you could train your dog to walk like an Egyptian.

Kitchen Pet Stations

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen or laundry room? Why not plan for a pet station. One of the newest trends in kitchen design, pet stations include slide out draws along the bottom of the cabinet that house food bowls made of stainless steel. Upper draws are often lined for dry kibble, and have special hooks and compartments making them perfect to house the family dog's toys, leashes and collars. Some drawers can even be refrigerated so you can keep meds or other nutritional supplements that require a cool environment fresh. With all the custom features available in today's kitchen trends, why not include the family dog?

International Assoc. of Canine Professionals Sending Care Packages to War Dogs

Donations are being collected to show our troops we are thinking about them this July 4th. We will be sending donated items to the K-9 handler teams in a special care package IACP bag along with items for their working K-9. In each bag will be some hygiene items, food, and recreational things.

Please send package items to Karen Wargo, 2018 Wedgewood Ln., Carrollton, Tx 75006. Please send monetary donations to help purchase items and send to troops to the IACP at the Head office address below. All donations must be received by June 12 in order to have time to pack the bags and mail them.

All donated items will be packaged in a gift bag including a note of thanks and sent to the military K-9 handlers with a special gift for their K-9 partner.
Requested items

Handlers (male & female):
Personal hygiene items (soap, shampoo, conditioner, aftershave, toothbrushes, facial wipes, razors, floss.)
* Lotion, lip balm, foot powder, baby wipes
* Books, crossword puzzles, board games, cards, magazines, jump rope
* AA/AAA batteries
* Calling cards
* Pens, pencils, greeting cards, stationary, tape
* Beef jerky, breath mints, granola bars, coffee, condiments, cookies, gum, tuna, drink mixes (Tang, Crystal Light, Kool-Aid), salad dressing, crackers, cereal, honey, Pop Tarts, Ramen noodles, peanut butter
* White ankle socks, T-shirts
* Paper, crayons, & colored pencils (for use with Iraqi children)

Dogs (large breeds):
Rope toys, pull toys
* Soft flex gripper balls
* Kong balls and toys
* Nylabones (Souper size)
* Chuckits and balls
* Dog treats


*Please do not send glass! Items must be able to withstand heat.

Monetary donations will be used for shipping, items to fill gift bags, and the purchase of cooling vests for the dogs.

Send monetary donations to: IACP, c/o War Dogs, P.O.Box 560156, Montverde, Fl. 34756-0156

www.dogpro.org